Rotherham man arrested in trafficking and slavery raids

A 46-year-old Eastwood man has been arrested as part of an investigation human trafficking and slavery described among the “first of its kind” in the region.

The man, along with a 28 year-old man from Worsborough, was arrested yesterday in raids carried out by South Yorkshire Police.

Detectives arrested the men on suspicion of trafficking people into the UK for the purpose of labour exploitation during the raids.

Both have been released on bail pending further inquiries.

The raids were part of a joint operation into adult labour exploitation carried out by South Yorkshire Police, the Gangmasters Licencing Authority (GLA), and other partner agencies.

A police spokeswoman said: “The investigation started in July after intelligence identified potential instances of forced labour, trafficking, and unlicensed gangmaster activity.”

Det Sgt Jamie Henderson said: “This is one of the first operations of its kind here in South Yorkshire.

“It has been a complex and difficult investigation and police have worked closely with a range of partner agencies to share information, expertise, and intelligence.

“We are focused on identifying victims of suspected trafficking are ensuring they are protected and cared for as a matter of priority.”

Dave Powell, senior investigating officer for the Gangmasters Licensing Authority (GLA), added: “The aim of the GLA is to work in partnership to protect vulnerable workers and we will continue to use all ethical and lawful means to relentlessly pursue criminals who seek to exploit other human beings.”